Definitions and History of Sustainable Agriculture

The USDA has defined sustainable agriculture - but underlying the definition are diverse and sometimes controversial views of sustainability. Explore a variety of approaches and practices, current and past, to appreciate where agriculture is going in the future.

The American National Standard for Sustainable Agriculture (ANSI/LEO-4000), approved in November, 2015, is the first national standard established for sustainable agriculture. The Standard addresses food and nonfood crops.

View our online oral history interviews with people who have provided leadership and inspiration in the field of alternative or sustainable agriculture. IFOAM also highlights Pioneers of the Organic Movement.

Sustainable Agriculture Research and Education (SARE). Western Region.

This account by J. Patrick Madden of the early years of the national sustainable agriculture research and education programs was prepared initially in 1995, under a contract between the SARE Program and the World Sustainable Agriculture Association.